New species of dinosaur discovered and it has some bizarre features

A recently unearthed dinosaur species, Jaculinykus yaruui, dating back approximately 70 million years, has been discovered, showcasing peculiar features. Paleontologists stumbled upon the fossilized remains of this novel species in the secluded region of the Gobi Desert in southern Mongolia, with their findings documented in the journal PLOS One.

The distinctive manner in which this dinosaur was unearthed adds to its intrigue. Researchers found it in an uncommon resting position reminiscent of the sleeping posture observed in modern birds, a rarity among dinosaurs according to paleontological circles.

This discovery holds significant weight in the realm of paleontology, shedding light on avian behavior evolution and providing a fresh perspective. Notably, the specimen was found in a position suggesting it was in a state of repose at the time of its demise.

The specimen of J. yaruui comprises an almost complete and exceptionally well-preserved skeleton, representing a lineage of diminutive theropod dinosaurs known as alvarezsaurids. These dinosaurs, primarily identified in the Gobi Desert’s Nemegt Basin, where J. yaruui was located, have also been unearthed in diverse locations such as the United States, Canada, Argentina, Uzbekistan, China, and Mongolia.

Kohta Kubo, affiliated with the Paleobiology Research Group at Hokkaido University, Japan, emphasized the bird-like attributes and distinct characteristics of these dinosaurs. The fossils, belonging to the Late Jurassic and Cretaceous periods, reveal J. yaruui as a diminutive creature measuring around 3 feet in length and weighing likely less than 65 pounds. It possessed a lightweight, bird-like skull with large eye sockets, remarkably short forelimbs bearing two fingers, and disproportionately long legs, indicating advanced running capabilities.

The scientific nomenclature of “Jaculinykus” combines a reference to a small dragon or serpent from Greek mythology (“Jaculus”) and the Latin term “onykus,” signifying claw. The second part of the name, “yaruui,” originates from the Mongolian word “yaruu,” denoting speed or hastiness.